In our previous blog post on wellness in the classroom, we discussed the importance of incorporating wellness in the university classroom and introduced a quick mindful breathing exercise. Today, we’ll delve deeper into practical strategies and activities that can promote student well-being and help them prepare for learning.

Additional Strategies for Wellness in the Classroom

1. Regular Breaks: It’s essential to allow students short breaks during longer lectures or discussion sessions. Encourage them to stand, stretch, or even take a quick walk around the classroom. These breaks can help prevent physical discomfort and enhance focus.
2. Incorporate Movement: Incorporating physical activity into the classroom can have a significant impact on wellness. You can introduce activities like yoga stretches or chair exercises that can be done in a few minutes. Movement breaks can invigorate students and reduce tension.
3. Mindful Minute: In addition to the mindful breathing exercise, you can introduce a “Mindful Minute” at the beginning or end of each class. Ask students to close their eyes and focus on their breath for one minute, clearing their minds of distractions and stressors.

Activity: Gratitude Journaling

Another effective activity for promoting wellness and a positive mindset in the university classroom is gratitude journaling. This activity can be completed in five minutes or less and has several benefits:

1. Improved Mood: Writing down things they are grateful for can boost students’ mood and increase their overall sense of well-being.
2. Reduced Stress: Reflecting on positive aspects of their lives can help students reduce stress and anxiety.
3. Enhanced Resilience: Regular gratitude journaling can enhance students’ resilience, helping them better cope with challenges.

Here’s how to incorporate gratitude journaling into your classroom:

1. Provide Materials: Supply students with small notebooks or encourage them to use digital tools if they prefer.
2. Set the Prompt: At the beginning or end of each class, give students a prompt to write about. For example, you can ask them to write down three things they are grateful for today or reflect on a recent achievement.
3. Silent Reflection: Allow students a few minutes of silent reflection and writing. Remind them that this is a personal activity, and they don’t need to share their entries with anyone else.
4. Optional Sharing: For those who feel comfortable, you can invite students to share their gratitude reflections with the class. This can foster a sense of community and positivity.

Incorporating gratitude journaling into your classroom routine can help students cultivate a more positive outlook on life and enhance their overall well-being.

In conclusion, promoting wellness in the university classroom is crucial for creating a supportive learning environment. By integrating activities like mindful breathing exercises and gratitude journaling, educators can empower students to prioritize their well-being, reduce stress, and enhance their ability to learn effectively. Remember, a healthy student is a more engaged and successful student.